MURFREESBORO, Tenn. — The 7th annual Downtown on the Farm will take place Sunday, Sept. 21, 2025, returning to the historic Oaklands Mansion.

Launched in 2017 as a fundraiser for Locally Owned Murfreesboro—a grassroots organization dedicated to strengthening the local small business community—the event has become a cherished tradition in Rutherford County. The farm-to-table dinner showcases the best of local agriculture and culinary talent, with ingredients sourced from Middle Tennessee farms and prepared by local chefs to create a memorable dining experience.

For six years, proceeds from Downtown on the Farm have provided scholarships for Rutherford County students in the Entrepreneurship Program at MTSU’s Jones College of Business. Although Locally Owned Murfreesboro has since closed, former president Missy Lay has continued the event through her business, Wild Goose Chase Events, ensuring its mission to support future entrepreneurs and celebrate local community remains strong.

Chef Chantell Joseph, an original Downtown on the Farm chef and founding committee member, has once again returned to lend her expertise. She has played a central role in the event’s success from the beginning, coordinating with chefs and helping design the menu each year.

The evening will begin at 4:30 p.m. with signature cocktails and hors d'oeuvres, followed by dinner at 5:30 p.m. Tickets are $85 and include two drink tickets and a commemorative handmade cup created by a local potter. Guests will also enjoy live music from local Americana duo The Howling Embers, performing from the mansion’s porch.

This year’s culinary lineup includes some of Murfreesboro’s most celebrated chefs. Mitchell Murphree, owner of Five Senses, Steakhouse Five, and Five on Black, returns for his seventh year with his signature fine dining and locally inspired cuisine. Charlie Eblen, pitmaster and owner of Single Tree BBQ, will bring bold, smoky flavors, while Chantell and Matthew Joseph of Simply Pure Sweets will add decadent desserts and artisan breads. Bob Burford, owner of B.B. Creations, will complete the team with his creative culinary touches. This year’s menu will carry a Southwestern flair, promising a vibrant and memorable dining experience.